Making Social and Emotional Learning Fun

Diversity and Equity
Dyson College of Arts and Science

Through Show and Spell, a captivating game designed to enhance social and emotional learning in children, Pace's Stan Royzman, PsyD, is helping children in a way that is simultaneously engaging and seeks to bolster positive therapeutic outcomes.

Show and Spell board game
Show and Spell board game
Lance Pauker
Image
Stan Royzman posing with his board game, Show and Spell.
Stan Royzman, PsyD, posing with Show and Spell

Stan Royzman, PsyD, is a 2016 graduate of Dyson’s School-Clinical PsyD program and supervising psychologist for Pace’s McShane Center for Psychological Services. He’s been a practicing psychologist for seven years, and his work primarily revolves around neuropsychology, psychotherapy, and advocacy.

Royzman, like many licensed psychologists who work with children, often makes use of games to connect with his patients and build rapport.

“Children communicate through play and they learn best by interacting with their environment. Therapists and counselors use games to build rapport, help children learn about and practice their social skills, and to grow more comfortable with expressing emotions.”

Over time, Royzman recognized a gap in the availability of games that foster social and emotional development. His aim as a psychologist is to enhance children's well-being, helping them develop skills for healthy relationships and emotion regulation.

"Children love games like Uno, Jenga, Catan, Connect Four…" he notes. "I found myself wishing for games that were equally as engaging but focused on social and emotional learning."

Royzman thus, saw an opportunity.

“I wanted to design a set of games that included all of the wonderful features that make physical games so enjoyable, but do so in a way that places social and emotional skills at the forefront.”

The result? After years of fine-tuning and collaboration, Royzman has launched Show and Spell—an inclusive set of three games for children ages five and above that emphasize emotions, nonverbal communication, social skills, perspective taking, and collaborative problem solving.

Through card decks, timers, dice, engaging images, and other familiar components, the games seek to reflect some of the most popular classics; but now with educational goals in mind. Furthermore, they are intentionally designed to be easily modifiable based on factors ranging from age to developmental needs, and are meant to assist parents, counselors, therapists, and educators in helping to meet their specific objectives. Due to the changing nature of education and supportive services during the past few years because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Show and Spell is also designed to be compatible in a virtual setting.

I wanted to design a set of games that included all of the wonderful features that make physical games so enjoyable, but do so in a way that places social and emotional skills at the forefront.

He explains, "Psychological well-being starts with the ability to discuss emotions comfortably, interact with others in a healthy way, and manage daily challenges effectively. These games are meant to supplement the social and emotional goals that parents have for their children, and that therapists and educators have for the kids with whom they work."

His current focus is to distribute Show and Spell widely, seeking feedback for improvement and potentially laying the groundwork for additional SEL games. He emphasizes, "Games must be fun, irrespective of their social-emotional content. My objective was to create games where learning is baked into the fun, akin to making broccoli more appealing by covering it in chocolate and whipped cream."

Driven by his fondness for neighborhood toy stores, he has partnered with The March Hare, an enchanting toy store situated in Manhattan's East Village. Royzman remarks, "Children require spaces in their communities that ignite creativity and foster a sense of wonder. I hope that Show and Spell will make a positive contribution to this endeavor.”

Learn more about Show and Spell and join the mailing list to enter the monthly raffle to win a copy.

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Through a $1.48 million grant, Pace is providing a blueprint for large-scale energy-efficient projects.

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Reducing our collective carbon emissions is an increasing necessity. As a New York Metro area leader in environmental research and education—see our top-ranked Environmental Law program—Pace has a long history of supporting programs to further sustainability throughout its campuses; and as an institution, understands the importance of leading the way when it comes to supporting and implementing clean energy projects.

As the University undergoes a major renovation of One Pace Plaza, Pace has a rare opportunity to do just that, thanks in part to a major grant from New York State to reduce carbon emissions.

Pace was recently awarded $1,486,720 from New York State as part of the Commercial and Industrial (C&I) Carbon Challenge, a competitive program that provides funding to large energy users such as manufacturers, universities, and health care facilities in New York State to support responsible energy initiatives. The funding will contribute to Pace’s reimagining of One Pace Plaza East via beneficial electrification and energy efficiency that will reduce total electricity consumption, part of a campus transformation that will include new academic spaces, a modernized residence hall, and a new state-of-the-art Performing Arts Center that will serve the performing and creative arts programs that are part of the Sands College of Performing Arts.

Pace’s Director of Energy and Resiliency Ryan McEnany, who was instrumental in securing the award, noted that the funding will play a major role in enabling Pace to reach important sustainability goals.

“We are extremely grateful to be selected for the Commercial and Industrial (C&I) Carbon Challenge award,” said McEnany. “It is our goal to showcase Pace University’s commitment to sustainability nationally and to continue to reduce our carbon emissions, especially through the implementation of this project that will utilize beneficial electrification of our heating system.”

“It is our goal to showcase Pace University’s commitment to sustainability nationally and to continue to reduce our carbon emissions, especially through the implementation of this project that will utilize beneficial electrification of our heating system.”

Pace’s renovation of One Pace Plaza East was one out of 15 projects selected by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority that will reduce carbon emissions and greenhouses gases throughout the state. In short, it is a continuation of Pace’s ongoing sustainability efforts, which have already resulted in a 20% reduction in energy costs and a 26% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

"By bringing stakeholders from across the University together, we've been able to identify and apply for public grants that support the amazing work done here at Pace," said Jerry McKinstry, assistant vice president for Public Affairs and founder of the Grants Strategy Group. "I'm incredibly grateful for the time and effort that this group has dedicated so far, and eager for us to pursue other opportunities that support the University’s mission."

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Faculty Focus: Professor Louis V. Fasulo

Elisabeth Haub School of Law

Alumnus. Attorney. Professor. Director of Advocacy Programs. Entrepreneur. Mentor. These are some of the words that can be used to describe Lou Fasulo’s professional life.

Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University Professor Lou Fasulo
Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University Professor Lou Fasulo
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Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University Professor Lou Fasulo teaching in a classroom

Alumnus. Attorney. Professor. Director of Advocacy Programs. Entrepreneur. Mentor. These are some of the words that can be used to describe Lou Fasulo’s professional life. After graduating from what was then called Pace Law in 1983, Professor Fasulo worked as a Public Defender for the Legal Aid Society in Manhattan for 11 years. He quickly rose in the supervisory ranks to the Position of Director of Staff Development and Training. From there, he founded his own firm while also starting his journey as Director of Advocacy Programs at Haub Law as well as Professor of Trial Practice. Professor Fasulo has tried over 100 cases in state and federal court in both civil and criminal matters ranging from White Collar crimes to Terrorism. He is a true trial attorney, and the courtroom and classroom are where he thrives. For the last 30 years, Professor Fasulo has made an impact on a countless number of Haub Law students and developed a top ranked advocacy program at the Law School.

What drew you to the practice of law?
I always wanted to be a lawyer for as long as I can remember. My dad was a lawyer, and he was my inspiration. I learned what the law practice meant to him and how much he enjoyed helping clients. There was no other career I could imagine myself doing from a very young age.

What was it about Pace that appealed to you when you were applying to law school?
I had friends going to Seton Hall, my dad went to Brooklyn Law, and I felt that I needed a new challenge and my own identity, so I decided to visit Pace. I was impressed with the community and the opportunities. Right away I liked the faculty community, I liked the size, and I just felt it would be a perfect fit. I wanted to begin a more serious academic journey and it worked out perfectly for me.

How did you start teaching and directing the advocacy program at Haub Law?
When I graduated from Haub Law, I went to work at the Legal Aid Society in Manhattan, I served there in a variety of capacities. Along the way, I ran into the then current teacher of trial advocacy at Pace. She was going on trial and needed help in the classroom, so I helped and I loved it. That in turn led to me getting my first class and then Dean Emeritus Richard Ottinger appointed me as the first ever Director of Trial Advocacy at Pace and I have been here since, furthering my involvement along the way. Teaching has always been my greatest passion. I love the courtroom, but I am truly passionate about teaching. It has been a true blessing to be at Pace in the capacity I am. Nothing makes me happier than watching the journey of my students in practice. I am excited when a student invites me to their first trial and shares their professional and personal successes. It is very rewarding to see the positive journey and path so many former students are on.

What differentiates Haub Law’s advocacy program from other advocacy programs?
We have a deep-rooted commitment in developing the individuality of each advocate and focusing on what personal attributes that advocate brings to the table. We work on developing each individual advocate’s skillset. We are not in the business of creating robotic lawyers. We want to find which skills will best serve that particular law student in their legal career. We expose our students to various techniques and styles so that they can find in themselves what is best for them. We provide great mentorship and opportunities for our students to get experience before graduation. It’s an all-hands-on approach by one of the most dedicated and talented faculty in the country.

What have you learned from your students over the years?
I learn how important the continual path of learning is to being the best lawyer I can be. Every single thing that happens in the classroom I reflect upon, and it helps me to adjust, modify, and sometimes change the things I do in my practice on behalf of my clients. I am also reminded about the pure excitement and energy that I had when I graduated. Being in the classroom and teaching reinvigorates me as to why I chose to continue to be on the path to serving clients and being in the courtroom.

What advice do you have for law students who are interested in pursuing a career in litigation?
My number one advice is good lawyers are good listeners, but great lawyers are great listeners. I encourage the students to be prepared but to listen to what is needed to succeed. That listening may be auditory or might just be picking up on the vibe of a judge or jury.

After 11 years at the Legal Aid Society, you founded your own firm, over 30 years ago. What are the biggest rewards and challenges of having your own firm?
Simply stated it is defining your work world. Who you wish to work with, the cases you choose to work on and creating the atmosphere which encourages collaboration and teamwork all in the effort to serve our clients. The greatest reward is the ability to decide exactly what your practice is going to look like, how you are going to spend your days, and what legal issues you want to invest in. The second greatest reward is the mentorship you are able to provide to so many associates and new attorneys. The ability to have that positive and direct impact on new lawyers is profound. The challenge is the business end of the practice of law. You must be a good businessperson to be able to be successful as a law firm partner.

What makes Haub Law such a special place for you?
The support of the community. As much as I feel like I contribute to Haub Law, the Law School has been extremely supportive of me and the Advocacy Program. When I started, we did not have an advocacy program, but with the support of the deans, the faculty and staff I was able to develop a tremendous, top ranked program that we should all be proud of. Our deans, our faculty, our staff – they are all very supportive of one another. However, the most important element is our students. Our students work hard, respect each other and care as much about our program as I do. They are truly invested. They prove this by giving back to future classes. Haub Law to me means community and from that community come great opportunities and connections. Some of the proudest moments of my professional life have been as a result of my connection to the Law School – having the first-year moot court competition named after me and being honored at the annual law leadership dinner. It is truly a little bit different than every other law school.

You graduated from law school in 1983, 40 years ago, what sort of alumni network do you maintain today?
I stay in touch with my core group of friends who I graduated with and who remain very influential in my life and career, but I have also expanded my network in so many ways. I have met a tremendous number of Pace alumni along the way – students who are now alumni, alumni that graduated in different years than me. I have a large and extensive Pace alumni network, which I value.

Aside from the law, how do you spend your spare time?
My family just bought a house in Italy, so I look forward to spending time there together. I am a huge New York Rangers fan. I truly enjoy traveling and meeting new people. I love going to the theater. I have many entrepreneurial interests. My terrific wife along with my two daughters are my favorite people to spend time with. I am immensely proud of my daughters and all they have accomplished and continue to accomplish. To me, family time is the most important. To be a successful lawyer you must balance professional life with a strong and active personal life.

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Ka’ramuu Kush, a faculty member of the Sands College of Performing Arts, is sharing wisdom and experience gained from many years as a working actor, director, and writer with students—and has already made quite an impact.

Pace Performing Arts Professor Ka'ramuu Kush
Pace Performing Arts Professor Ka'ramuu Kush
Lance Pauker

Ka’ramuu Kush is busy.

In addition to an active career as an actor, writer, and director (check out his IMDb page), Kush has had a long, successful career in teaching. After spending a decade as a faculty member at Howard University, Kush recently made the move back to New York—where his career in show-business began—to become an Associate Professor at the Sands College of Performing Arts.

How does Kush juggle it all? In his words, teaching the craft is energizing in-and-of-itself

“To see the students every day for class is just a lift,” says Kush. “No matter what’s going on in the world or in my life—when I see them and I know we have some work to do, or films to watch, it’s always a lift.”

Kush joined the Sands College of Performing Arts Faculty in Fall 2022, and has hit the ground running. He’s primarily teaching courses in the Acting for Film, Television, Voiceover, and Commercials BFA program, leveraging his considerable experience as a multi-hyphenate artist to impart both grounding theory and practical, actionable lessons to his students. Like many other instructors at Pace’s College of Performing Arts—and at Pace in general—Kush being a working professional in the very field that he is teaching adds an extra level of insight to the classroom setting.

“The students keep me fresh and buoyant and charged-up, so that when I go into the industry, I’m reminded of my purpose, why I’m doing it.”

Kush, furthermore, believes that his professional and teaching careers go hand-in-hand—that they symbiotically build off one another, and provide extra motivation for him to be the most focused and purposeful artist possible.

“The students keep me fresh and buoyant and charged-up, so that when I go into the industry, I’m reminded of my purpose, why I’m doing it,” notes Kush. “You have a number of eyes on you, and you’re making impression on young minds who will be carrying whatever it is you impart or show in terms of your work.”

In addition to teaching the craft, Kush also believes it is his duty to offer practical wisdom he found lacking when he was a student—spending time teaching his students about how to approach a career in the arts from a business perspective—to know their worth as an artist, to manage their money, to translate their skills into multiple income streams. Kush hopes that these lessons will eventually form the foundation of a course—one he believes is both under-emphasized in traditional performing arts schooling, yet absolutely necessary.

“We have this stereotype of the starving artist. Who said the artist had to starve?”

Although he’s only been at Pace for a short while, Kush’s outlook on both teaching and the profession—one that blends big picture thinking with meticulous attention to detail—is a unique combination that has already, and will certainly continue, to inspire performing arts students for years to come.

“Life is too abundant and fruitful to not be benefiting, especially as an artist—and as an artist, you’re responsible for a lot of that abundance and fruitfulness because you bring vicarious experiences to the masses—the plumber, the doctor, the banker, the elementary school teacher. They can see their experiences, their problems, and challenges reflected through you."

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